The Bound Between Us

Chapter 845

Autumn's nerves weren't an act she was genuinely anxious about Daria.

Anastasia noticed right away. It seemed a bit over the top; Autumn had never been this tense, especially meeting Daria for the first time.

Katelyn strolled over, trying to keep things light. "Kids are always running into things. It's normal-no need to fuss."

She waved the nanny over. "Why don't you take Daria outside to play? Let us enjoy our tea for a bit."

The nanny moved to pick up Daria, but Autumn clung to her, a little too tightly. "She's got such delicate skin-one little bump and she could get hurt. I really like this kid. Let me hold her a little longer."

She didn't want to hand Daria over, and Katelyn's comment stung. Easy for her to say, when it's not her own granddaughter.

But Daria wasn't interested in Autumn's affection. She started to cry, wriggling away, reaching for Anastasia. "I don't want you! I want my mom! Mommy!"

She really did treat Anastasia like her mom.

Daria's temper kicked in, and she even tried to smack Autumn's hands away.

Katelyn scolded, "Daria, you can't hit people! Just like your mom-you've both got a wild streak."

Autumn's face fell, stung by the slap and Katelyn's words about her

granddaughter.

"Mrs. Walker, let

into her arms

out of sight and earshot, Autumn's worry only grew. What if Anastasia lost

her look, thinking Autumn was just upset by Daria's outburst. "Don't let it get to you, Autumn. Daria's always been like this-quick to swing and

Nancy woke up, their cries echoing through the house- either

called the

guaranteed. Peace and quiet was out of the

calm, it was

today. Next time, let's just meet the two of us. Going out with the kids

worries. Kids are kids like being around them, honestly. Mr. Walker and I never had any of our own, so seeing you with your grandkids makes me a ¶ttle

next time it's

loaded them into the car, with Anastasia buckling in

said offhandedly, "Mom, Mrs. Walker really seems to care about Daria. She was the first one to rush over when

drop Daria off at Salstrom

for Daria

feeling that Autumn treated Daria differently. If Autumn just loved kids,

and Anastasia brought Daria back inside, she'd seen the look on Autumn's face-clear annoyance, even

didn't try to play with them either. Most people couldn't resist at least

put it gently. "Mom, maybe next time you and Mrs. Walker meet, leave Emmie and Nancy at home. It's tough to relax when the kids are